Xanax for Anxiety and Insomnia: Effects and Risks
Xanax is a commonly prescribed drug for anxiety disorders and panic attacks. It is also occasionally used to treat insomnia due to its relaxing properties. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of addiction associated with Xanax.
Alprazolam, commonly known as Xanax, is a prescription medication in the benzodiazepine (benzos) class. Other benzos such as Valium and Klonopin are also frequently prescribed. Xanax has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. However, its sedative and euphoric effects can lead to abuse.
While Xanax is primarily used for anxiety and panic disorders, it is not uncommon for it to be used off-label for sleeplessness or alcoholism.
The Effects of Xanax on the Brain
Xanax works as a depressant of the central nervous system by increasing the levels of the sedative neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This can help reduce racing thoughts and calm anxious emotions in individuals with anxiety or panic attacks.
Xanax is a fast-acting medication, with effects typically felt within an hour of taking it. Although its effects may wear off within a few hours, it can remain detectable in the system for up to 90 days. While Xanax can provide certain mental health benefits, it can also be habit-forming and lead to substance misuse.
Common Uses of Xanax
Alprazolam is primarily used for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders, and it was considered a breakthrough medication for these conditions when it was introduced in the 1980s.
Due to its short half-life, individuals with severe anxiety may take small doses of Xanax up to three times a day. While it is intended as a temporary solution, some patients may end up taking it for years.
Its use for insomnia is based on one of its common side effects, fatigue or drowsiness. As anxiety and stress can contribute to insomnia, Xanax may help some individuals sleep.
Treating Insomnia with Xanax
Stress can cause racing thoughts, increased heart rate, and nightmares, making it difficult to fall and stay asleep.
Xanax is sometimes prescribed for insomnia because of its effectiveness in treating anxiety and tension. However, it is also common for individuals to illegally self-medicate sleep problems with benzodiazepines.
While Xanax can be an effective short-term treatment for insomnia when used as directed, it is not intended for long-term use. Several factors contribute to this.
Effects on Sleep Cycles
Using Xanax to treat sleep disturbances can disrupt the brain’s natural sleep cycles. Prolonged use of Xanax, beyond a few weeks or months, can cause long-term harm. The brain goes through four stages of sleep in a repeating cycle every night, with the deepest and most restorative sleep occurring in stages 3 and 4.
During this stage of sleep, the immune system is strengthened, tissues are repaired, and memories are consolidated. If stages 3 and 4 are consistently interrupted, the body may not fully recover.
Individuals who do not spend enough time in these stages of sleep are at risk of illness, premature aging, chronic fatigue, and impaired learning.
Sleep Deprivation
Using Xanax to treat insomnia can result in sleep hangovers when the body does not receive enough restorative sleep. Side effects may include feeling sluggish, clumsy, or forgetful the next day.
These effects can persist throughout the day and may worsen over time with nightly use of alprazolam. This can affect one’s ability to drive and perform daily activities that require focus and coordination.
Tolerance to Xanax can develop within a few weeks of use, leading to rebound insomnia that is worse than before starting the medication. It is important to explore alternative treatments for persistent insomnia rather than relying solely on Xanax.
Looking to Buy Xanax without Prescription?
If you are interested in purchasing Xanax without a prescription, Pharmauniversal offers trusted and 100% original medicines with no side effects. Our experts can guide you towards the best medicine for instant relief.
We provide next-day delivery
